Najaf
His Eminence Ayatullah Hakim (may his blessings last and his name be exalted) :
I was grateful to receive your telegram of condolence on the great disaster. Through the unity of the `ulama' of Islam and the maraji` of our time (may God multiply the likes of them) , I hope we can protect the independence of the country, cut off the foreigners' encroaching hands, defend the domain of Islam and the Qur'an, and prevent any violation of the essential laws of Islam. We know that with the migration of the maraji` and prominent `ulama' (may God exalt their names) the great center of Shi`ism would reach the verge of destruction and will be drawn toward blasphemy and atheism, and our religious brothers will face torture and suffering. We know that with such a migration substantial changes will be brought about which are causes of concern to us. We will carry on for now in this burning fire and will tolerate the threats to our lives to defend Islam and the Muslims, the domain of the Holy Qur'an and the independence of the Islamic country. We will retain the clerical centers as far as we can, and invite to peace and calm, unless the tyrannical regime decides to set off on a course that would force us to react in a way that from which I would seek the refuge in God, the Blessed and Exalted. I sincerely extend my supportive hand toward all Muslims, especially the prominent `ulama' and the great maraji` (may God lengthen their lives) and ask for help from all classes of the people for guarding the Islamic laws and the independence of Islamic countries. I feel certain that the ranks of foreigners and adversaries will be shattered with the unity of expression of the Muslims, especially the prominent `ulama so that they would never dream of encroaching upon the Muslim countries. God willing, we will fulfill our divine obligation, and will attain" one of the two good things;" «1» either cutting off the treacherous hands from the domain of Islam and the Holy Qur'an, or residing in the blessings of God, the Exalted, in Heaven." I see nothing in death but happiness and I find nothing in living with the despotic but disgrace." «2» Now, the despotic regime is making its ultimate effort to extinguish the light of God." But Allah will perfect His light however much the disbelievers are averse." «3»
Rouhullah al-Mousawi al-Khomeini